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Trane Vs American Std Pricing

17 years ago

After reading post after post after post on HVAC, I still can't make a decision and would appreciate your help. I know how much you like analyizing quotes :) so here goes.

Background, 1977 tri-level house, updated insulation and windows, original york hp, 1850 sf, rock hill, sc.

I got 5 quotes 3 trane, 1 american std, 1 goodman, 1 carrier. I've narrowed it down between 1 trane and american std. Here is what I was quoted.

Trane

Trane XL15i (3 Ton) 15 Seer Split Heat Pump System (410a)

Outdoor Heat Pump Unit & Equipment Pad

Indoor Variable speed air handler

10KW heaters

Comfort Control Touch Screen Thermostat

Honeywell humidifier

replace all duct in crawlspace w/ r-8

increase return to 20x30.

$8300 and will also throw in a UV light.

American Std.

American Standard (15 SEER 3.0 Tons) Split System Heat Pump Model 4A6H5036A1 (410a)

Air Handler/Variable Speed/AirTite Convertible W/10 Kw Heater Model 4TEE3F39A1000A

Honeywell Thermostat 4H 2C Touch Screen Programmable w/ Outdoor Sensor Model IAQ

Honeywell Tru Steam 9 Gallon Humidifier

replace all duct in crawlspace w/ r-8

$7800

I think both installers will do a great job so it really comes down to the difference in the two systems. Is it worth $500 to get the Trane. I was kinda thinking Trane because there are a lot of authorized Trane people in the area but only one American Std.

Is the UV light worth having?

What is your opinion?

Approximately what should the difference in price be between a Trane and American Std?

Thank you for your help.

Comments (6)

  • 17 years ago

    slap

    as you probably already know, Trane and AmStd are sister companies. Trane's XL15i and AmStd Heritage 15 are basically identical HPs with the exception of Trane's XLi condenser covered funky top. If you have heavy leaf foliage, then Trane's top will keep out most of this type trash.

    If you have the space, I would prefer the 4TEE3F40B1 air handler for both the extra heating and cooling BTUs. Of course, it qualifies for the $1500 Fed Govt tax credit.

    you should check with both dealers and have a clear written understanding of both the dealer warranty and the mfg warranty.

    I would not have the stat the Trane dealer is providing. You do want the HW VP IAQ that has "dehumidify on demand" feature.

    Humidifier and UV light are just options and are fine if needed. Quote should include new correctly sized refrigerant lineset.

    I would stage the 10 KW heat strip with two 5 KWs.

    If you need more return, then ask the AmStd dealer to provide. Cost is inconsequential since ductwork is being replaced. Yes,ductwork is relatively cheap.

    If properly sized and installed, you will like either of these systems compared to existing.

    AmStd is normally less expensibe than Trane. As stated check warranties. any mfg rebates or other promotions available on these systems?

    Both of these HPs are one of the best sgl stg models on the residential market.

    IMO
    Good Luck!

  • 17 years ago

    Good advice above and very important points to follow. The 39 air handler quoted is taller (58") but less wide than the 40. If you can get the 40 air handler to fit, which is 26" wide but only 52" high, that's the way to go.

    I could give more thoughts but it's pretty much just a repeat of above. The Trane has a 10 year parts warranty across the board, while the American Standard would be 10/5.

  • 17 years ago

    I like the weather gaurd top on the Trane it move the air differntly then the A.S. The Trane unit is really quiet, I dont know how loud the A.S. it migh be a couple of sound decimals louder. You can buy a UV light on-line for like $200 that work really well, and install it your-self. Ill try to get the link up later.

    Here is a link that might be useful: Comfort Time

  • 17 years ago

    Thanks for the replies. It seems that the systems are almost identical. Whichever one I go with, I'll get the IAQ thermostat as I've read good things about it here. The quotes both include new linesets. I'll also see about changing air handlers.

    Is there any reason I should pay $500 more for the Trane?

  • 17 years ago

    "Is there any reason I should pay $500 more for the Trane?"

    10-year part warranty on Trane XLi systems. See how much it would be to extend the labor to 10 years as well. For both the A/S and Trane.

  • 17 years ago

    slap

    as stated previously, you need to verify warranty from each dealer, both the dealer warranty and the manufacturer warranty as well as any rebate/promotion from the manufacturer. any sound difference between the two systems would be inconsequential. I would ask/negotiate the cost of an ext warranty-full 10 yr parts and labor on each system. and if you are still undecided, go with the dealer you have the most confidence and comfort with.

    IMO
    Good Luck!